QUOTE: Originally posted by TheRockModeler I have read many strands on here but have questions, if explained on other strands please tell me which ones. I am an experinced HO modeler, love gardening (for the last 2 years), wife put 2 & 2 together and got me an USA GP7 for christmas (got to LOVE the wife!) I have been toying with this idea of a garden railroad since I bought a house 2 years ago, so I have a basic layout idea in mind. I plan an layout around the yard (40x70 approx) etc eventually. Questions #1 I plan to go wireless- I've done basic wiring (HO and house wiring), sound a lot easier than cleaning track -plus I plan on snow trains. I want to know various methods R/C car batts, aristo crafts stuff, etc and how long they last in locos and which transmitters to use and how far transmitters work. I would go with RCS or Airwire both have there merits and systems for batteries #2 I have a dog (45lb Standard Poodle) who loves to run, and run and run (he will thow 1"+ rocks several feet when he starts running) will track joiners (HO name), or the clamps, or what to keep the track in place. Use either split jaw or hillman railclamps and this should remedy that issue #3 balast -just give me a good ref book, mag, etc that will meet #2 and give good drainage etc in Iowa (weather from approx 100+ to -10 degrees, with ususally 90+ humidity ) my soil can be a bit swampy in spring.- thankfully no standing water but my neighbor does get 1-2" standing water in the back of his yard each spring (about 1' lower than my yard) Goto the Garden Railways home page and order the book Garden Railways-Getting started, It's a great reference book #4 which track to use, I dont think Im gonna care about conductivity assuming I stay with #1. but looks and #2, lawn mowers, etc damage. Ive read several times LGB switches are best, but is that for workings or electricty, or priceAristocraft track is strong and affordable, there buy 4 boxes get one free sale starts in February. Some say LGB is stronger but not by much. The issue of switches is LGB vs.Aristo is only relevant if you are track power. It also sounds like your into them deisels so don't use anything less than a 5 ft raduis curve, like HO bigger is better #5 I plan to build a (locked) shed to store cars-poss locos (covered all sides, slightly raised ( approx 3") on the long side but on the ground, but they would still be subject to humidity/temp changes, will they be ok in there, (receivers, electronics, rust) do I need fans etc Make it water tight, meaning no direct water on the locos or rolling stock but have ventilation for air flowto keep condensation from happing. A fan like a computer fan would be great for the really humid months. any help appricidated[:D]
Best wishes,Tony Walsham (Remote Control Systems) http://www.rcs-rc.comModern technology. Old fashioned reliability.
Yes we are on time but this is yesterdays train
Tom Trigg
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